During the late 1980s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to Europe with a travel partner. Because my companion was considering pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had planned a fortnight visit there before heading to London.
We arrived at the student accommodation, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the Manhattan's Upper West Side named International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the canteen, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and began chatting with people eating there.
Beside me was an Iraqi man studying engineering at Columbia University. He wanted to know what I did for a living, and I explained that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.
He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – right next door to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He recommended that I ought to seek a role with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
The following day I toured the city, coming back to the dining hall that after dark. The engineering student approached me and told me that he had set up a meeting for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Given that he had taken the effort, I attended the interview – but immediately told my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
In typical New York fashion – a place where opportunities abound – she declared: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I never got on that flight to London.
I held that position for 36 months. A perk of the job was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a master’s of international affairs.
I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his name, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in multiple respects. I would never have had the courage or self-belief to approach someone at an prestigious college and request employment. Moreover, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that tuition waiver.
Perhaps most importantly, that gig at Columbia paved the way for a role in Europe where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I now have a family of four kids. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Unknown Person Has Shown for You?
Whether it's cheering you up to changing your life, we are interested in unexpected interactions that have remained in your memory.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, without revealing your identity if you prefer. What you share are secure, and are intended for the aim of this article.
